Belly Fat Diet For Dummies
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This weight loss plan is the strictest of the three Belly Fat Diet plans, and it’s not for everyone. This plan was developed to help the resistant dieter. This person struggles to lose even 1 or 2 pounds and feels she gains weight just by looking at food. This plan is also for the person who wants to see progress and see it quickly.

[Credit: ©iStockphoto.com/oonal 2011]
Credit: ©iStockphoto.com/oonal 2011

This plan requires the most dedication, especially in Level 1 (the first two weeks of the plan). Depending on your age, activity level, and weight loss progress, you may choose to stay in Level 2 of your Turbocharged plan until you reach your weight loss goals.

If you exercise for more than 60 minutes per day or are losing weight too quickly (more than 2 pounds per week after the first few weeks of your plan), transition to Level 2 of the Moderation plan. This plan helps you continue to safely reach your weight loss goals and keep the weight off for good.

The basics of the Turbocharged plan

The Turbocharged plan includes two levels to work through to achieve your weight loss goals:

  • Level 1: This level, which comprises the first two weeks of the Turbocharged plan, focuses on reducing your intake of carbohydrates while increasing your intake of lean protein. This isn’t a low-carb diet, though. Level 1 simply reduces the amount of carbohydrates while still providing you with a healthy level for energy.

    By slightly reducing carbohydrates and increasing lean protein, you gain a slight metabolism boost. This slight decrease in carbs also helps your body to quickly shed any excess water weight you may be carrying, helping to deflate your belly and provide you with an energy boost.

  • Level 2: Level 2 of the Turbocharged plan increases your intake of healthy carbohydrates to ensure adequate energy throughout your weight loss efforts. The added carbs also increase your food options to encourage variety with your meal plan and prevent boredom. As healthy carbohydrates are reintroduced, protein and fat intake decrease slightly.

Follow these main guidelines when following the Turbocharged plan:

  • Pay attention to your plan levels. Level 1 is designed to last for only two weeks. At the end of these two weeks, you want to move into Level 2. You can stay in Level 2 of the Turbocharged plan until you meet your weight loss goals.

    However, if you find the Turbocharged plan to be too restrictive or you feel that your energy levels have declined, you can move into Level 2 of the Moderation plan, which continues to promote a healthy rate of weight loss until you reach your long-term weight loss goals.

  • Eat your nonstarchy veggies. Nonstarchy vegetables are unlimited in both Level 1 and Level 2. It’s important to consume at least four servings of nonstarchy veggies per day.

  • Take notice of the differing starchy vegetable requirements in Levels 1 and 2. They’re considered a separate category in Level 1 to ensure you’re taking in enough nutrients, fiber, and healthy carbohydrates. In Level 2, starchy vegetables are included in the starch group and are optional.

  • Select your proteins judiciously. When choosing protein options, make sure to select mainly lean proteins. If you select medium/high-fat proteins, each ounce that you eat counts as one protein and one fat serving.

  • Get the right kinds of fat. Aim to choose your daily fat servings from belly-blasting choices like monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids.

  • Stay hydrated. Make sure to drink at least 64 ounces of water daily to stay hydrated and decrease belly bloat.

Who should opt for the Turbocharged plan?

The Turbocharged plan is most appropriate for the following people:

  • Inactive individuals

  • Individuals of short stature

  • Individuals over the age of 40

  • Individuals who feel their metabolism has slowed with age

  • Individuals who have had little to no success with previous weight loss programs

  • Individuals who want to see quick results to keep them motivated

  • Pre- and postmenopausal women

The Turbocharged plan is not appropriate for

  • Individuals with diabetes (the reduced carbohydrate level may lead to dangerous drops in blood sugar)

  • Women who have just given birth and are breastfeeding

  • Very active individuals (90 minutes of intense exercise or more per day)

About This Article

This article is from the book:

About the book author:

Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, is a nationally recognized nutrition and fitness expert who has contributed to national media outlets such as the CBS Early Show, ABC News, CBS News, Fox News, Fitness Magazine, and Prevention Magazine, among others.

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